FAR DECODED — GLOSSARY

Critical altitude

Definition

Critical altitude means the maximum altitude at which, in standard atmosphere, it is possible to maintain, at a specified rotational speed, a specified power or a specified manifold pressure. Unless otherwise stated, the critical altitude is the maximum altitude at which it is possible to maintain, at the maximum continuous rotational speed, one of the following:

Source: 14 CFR § 1.1 (verbatim from the Federal Aviation Regulations).

Where This Term Is Used